When most people think of Hospice care, their minds often go first to Doctors and Nurses, however Hospice Whanagnaui’s team is much broader we also have a large Health Care Assistant Team and Whānau Support Team.
Hospice Whanganui knows that behind every person we care for is a Whānau and behind every Whānau are people like Carla and the Hospice Whanganui’s Whānau Support Team.
Carla and her team are a steady, compassionate presence walking alongside families through some of life’s most tender and challenging moments. From emotional support and practical guidance to spiritual care, grief and loss support, their mahi ensures no one walks this journey alone.
The Heart of Whānau Support
Every day, Carla’s team helps families navigate not just the medical side of End of Life care, but the deeply human side; the grief, the uncertainty, the hope, and the aroha that come with it.
“Our clients and their Whānau are at the centre of everything we do. Listening, hearing, and gently guiding is the foundation of our practice.”
The Whānau Support team includes Social Workers, Whānau Support Navigator, Chaplain, each person and role brings their own strengths, creating a circle of care grounded in aroha, Manaaki, and respect.
Walking the Talk of Te Whare Tapa Whā
Guided by Te Whare Tapa Whā, and Hospice Whanganui’s client and Whānau led model of care, Carla’s team walks alongside people as they make choices that reflect who they are and what matters most to them.
“Our role isn’t to take over, it’s to stand beside and walk gently.”
Working closely with Nurses, Doctors, and Health Care Assistants, the team weaves emotional, social, and spiritual care throughout all practice, internal and external.
Together, they form an integrated, holistic approach that supports the whole person, body, mind, and Wairua.
The Mahi and the Meaning
For Carla, the most rewarding part of this mahi isn’t a single moment, it’s the ongoing privilege of being invited into people’s lives at such a sacred time.
“It’s not about fixing things. It’s about listening, holding space, and helping people find peace in their own way.”
One day the team might be helping to sort out practical matters, the next they’re sitting quietly with a grieving whānau, whatever the need, they show up with aroha, integrity, and deep respect.
The Team Behind the Care
The Whānau Support team is small but mighty, working quietly in the background, yet touching every part of the hospice journey.
“I’m so proud of our team. They bring heart, courage, and care to every situation.”
Together, they remind us that hospice care isn’t just about the final days, it’s about relationships, dignity, and the mana upheld along the way.
💛 At Hospice Whanganui, we believe care is strongest when it’s shared between Whānau, community and support services.
👉 Learn more about our integrated approach and the people behind the care here.